Linkwood 17yo 1990/2008 (55.5%, Signatory, Binny’s Beverage Depot, C#9724, Sherry Hogshead, 232 Bts)

A cask selected by Binny’s Beverage Depot in Chicago and despite the appearance of being an 18yo (1990 to 2008) it’s 17yo because of the dates; distilled on 26.11.1990 and bottled on 05.08.2008 however it’s a single cask selection and bottled at ask strength without any chill filtration or the addition of caramel. The nose is very strong with antique furniture with cedar lined drawers. An exceptional nose that suggests much greater age back stopped with surprising sweetness layered chocolate and coffee to a lesser degree. The taste is not as strong as the nose at first and then a barrage of flavours; intermingling oak, sweet sherry, fruit and chocolate. Wonderful and warming, not a flaw to be found. Whoever picked this cask is to be congratulated! I’m pleased that I have a back up bottle. The finish is woody with malt, more fruit; oranges, plums and long, after a few minutes dry sherry and spicy oak vie for dominance.

A ridiculously low US$66. Somebody made an error here…..buy a few before the auditors raise the alarm.

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Score: 88 Points